Vegetable Beef Soup (with Barley)

lean beef ((e.g. sirloin, round, or trimmed chuck, cut into 1/2 inch pieces))

pearl barley ((uncooked, soaked overnight in water if possible, but not absolutely necessary))

beef stock or broth

Herbs de Provence ((or Italian herb mix))

carrots ((medium size, peeled and diced))

leek ((cut in half and thinly sliced))

yellow onion ((medium size, peeled and chopped))

ribs celery ((sliced))

Salt ((to taste))

Black pepper ((to taste))

small bunch of fresh parsley ((minced, for garnish))

Crusty sourdough bread ((to served with the soup))